Concerns over the BBC's funding model
The BBC could be facing a scandal similar to the Post Office scandal, with thousands of people being prosecuted each month for licence fee evasion "behind closed doors," according to Science Minister Andrew Griffith. In a newsletter to his constituents, Griffith criticized the corporation's funding model and called the almost £170 monthly fee "unsustainable." He expressed agreement with Lord MacDonald, a former Director of Public Prosecutions, who suggested that these cases should be handled by the independent Crown Prosecution Service instead of the BBC's TV licensing arm.
High number of monthly prosecutions
Griffith revealed that approximately 3,400 people are prosecuted each month for not paying the BBC licence fee, based on recent Ministry of Justice figures. These cases are currently handled internally by the BBC's own TV licensing arm. The minister expressed concern that this system could lead to potential scandals similar to the Post Office scandal.
Call for alternatives to the licence fee
Griffith stated that the £170 annual BBC licence fee is unsustainable and expressed his support for the government's exploration of alternative funding options. Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer has also voiced her opinion that the BBC should be stripped of its powers to prosecute individuals for non-payment of the licence fee, a topic that will be examined during the next charter review period.
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